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NanoManufacturing

Michael De Volder, Engineering Department - IfM
 
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Table of Contents for Advanced Materials. List of articles from both the latest and EarlyView issues.
Updated: 1 hour 53 min ago

Designing Maximal Strength in Nanolamellar Eutectic High‐Entropy Alloys

Fri, 27/06/2025 - 15:14

This study uses molecular dynamics simulations to guide the design of EHEAs with superior mechanical performance. The simulations reveal a peak tensile strength at a critical interphase boundary spacing. Below this spacing, the governing mechanism shifts from the Hall–Petch strengthening to dislocation multiplication–mediated softening.  Guided by these insights, LPBF-fabricated EHEAs achieve a tensile strength of 1.8 GPa, approaching the theoretical limit and exceeding other as-printed high-entropy alloys.


Abstract

Eutectic alloys have driven technological advancements for centuries, from early bronze tools that marked the dawn of metallurgy to high-performance soldering materials. Building on this legacy, eutectic high-entropy alloys (EHEAs) have recently emerged to push the boundaries of mechanical performance. However, the strength potential of EHEAs remains largely untapped, primarily because of limitations in cooling rates, posing a significant challenge to the development of ultra-strong bulk EHEAs. This study employs large-scale molecular dynamics simulations to uncover key insights into the design of EHEAs with exceptional mechanical performance. Simulations reveal that the maximum tensile strength occurs at a critical interphase boundary spacing, an order of magnitude larger than that observed in conventional alloys. Below this spacing, the governing mechanism shifts from the Hall–Petch strengthening to dislocation multiplication–mediated softening. Guided by the simulation insights, a tensile strength of 1.8 GPa is achieved for laser powder bed fusion–fabricated EHEAs. This strength approaches the theoretical limit and outperforms other state-of-the-art as-printed high-entropy alloys. This work not only establishes a viable pathway for designing ultra-strong EHEAs but also provides a promising avenue for addressing the long-standing challenge of developing high-performance as-printed materials for aerospace and other demanding applications.

Lesional Macrophage‐Targeted Nanomedicine Regulating Cholesterol Homeostasis for the Treatment of Atherosclerosis

Fri, 27/06/2025 - 15:14

Atherosclerosis (AS) progression is driven by foam cell dysfunction and inflammation. This work develops siTTENPs, a nanoplatform capable of delivering siTRPM2 and targeting lesional macrophages to inhibit oxidized low-density lipoprotein (oxLDL) uptake and improve the inflammatory microenvironment. Additionally, β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) modification enhances cholesterol clearance, restoring lipid homeostasis. In vitro and in vivo studies confirm that siTTENPs effectively induce AS plaque regression and slow disease progression.


Abstract

The accumulation of atherosclerosis plaques within arterial walls leads to cardiovascular events. Lipid-laden macrophages, known as foam cells play a pivotal role in atherosclerotic plaque progression by disrupting cholesterol homeostasis and facilitating inflammation. This study presents a rational and multivalent nanoplatform (siTTENPs) for atherosclerosis treatment. siTTENPs can form electrostatic complexes with the nucleic acid siTRPM2, thereby reducing oxidized low-density lipoprotein (oxLDL) uptake by foam cells and alleviating inflammation. Concurrently, β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) modified siTTENPs facilitate cholesterol clearance, further re-establishing lipid homeostasis. The nanometer size and S2P peptide (CRTLLTVRKC) modification endow these particles with specific targeting capabilities toward lesional macrophages, thereby enhancing their anti-atherosclerotic efficacy. Consequently, the siTTENPs delivery system effectively inhibits pathological cholesterol internalization while simultaneously promoting cholesterol efflux mechanisms and reducing inflammation. This therapeutic intervention leads to significant regression of atherosclerotic plaque. This study introduces an innovative therapeutic strategy aimed at improving cholesterol homeostasis, with promising implications for the treatment of atherosclerosis.

Single‐Atom Ru Anchored Mesoporous TiO2 Phase‐Junction Promotes Photocatalytic Biomass Conversion

Fri, 27/06/2025 - 15:13

The single-atom Ru-anchored mesoporous TiO2 nanoreactors with tunable anatase-rutile phases are prepared via a micelle-interface confined co-assembly strategy, achieving an efficient DFF conversion with a yield of 87.6% and high selectivity of 90.8%. The introduction of Ru single-atom on the TiO2 phase interface further facilitates the cascade conversation of DFF to FFCA with a high yield of 74.6% and a selectivity of 75.8%.


Abstract

Constructing advanced semiconductor nanoreactors is an effective route to boost the efficient photocatalytic conversion of biomasses to high-value-added products. Herein, single-atom anchored flower-like mesoporous TiO2 nanoreactors with tunable anatase-rutile crystalline phases are prepared via a micelle-interface confined co-assembly strategy (Ru0.5/A&R-TNs). This approach not only facilitates the introduction of various monatomic/diatomic (e.g., Ru, Mo, Pd, Pt, etc.) sites but also spontaneously induces the TiO2 phase transformation from anatase to rutile, achieving precise control of two-phase ratios. The interface of the two phases with abundant oxygen vacancies (Ov) facilitates the adsorption and activation of 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF), which exhibits a high photocatalytic HMF oxidation to DFF (selectivity of 90.8%). Based on the optimal phase compositions, the doping of Ru single-atom further exhibits a high atom utilization and suitable electronic structure. Therefore, the Ru0.5/A&R-TNs achieve the cascade conversion from HMF to 5-formyl-2-furoic acid with a selectivity of 75.8%. This research provides innovative ways for single-atom catalyst synthesis, and the mechanism of synergistic catalytic action may provide new guidance for the photocatalytic conversion of high-value-added products from HMF.

Sword and Board in One: A Bioinspired Nanocomposite Membrane for Guided Bone Regeneration

Fri, 27/06/2025 - 15:07

The combinatorial design of bioinspired multiscale structure and intrinsic composition realizes a collection of functions as “sword (active offense) and board (passive defense)” in GBR treatment. This work not only sparks new vitality to bioinspired GBR treatment in the next generation toward reconciling critical conflict presented in tissue engineering but also offers a promising outlook for future clinical translation.


Abstract

Guided bone regeneration (GBR) faces far from a one-dimensional challenge. It demands a multifunctional membrane to possess paradoxical but essential properties in sophisticated clinical scenarios. Drawing inspiration from natural biological structures and superior properties, through a combination of structure innovation and composition regulation, a multicomponent nacre-inspired discontinuous Bouligand structure is devised and transcribed into a bioinspired Janus nanocomposite membrane with comprehensive properties for GBR, identical to “sword and board.” As a sword, our membrane can actively adapt to sharp bony ridges owing to high toughness, capture water molecules for fluid penetration, drive osteogenic expression, and kill bacteria. As a board, it can achieve superior mechanical strength to withstand external forces, passively maintain structural integrity for ingrowth barrier, while function as a passive substrate for cell adhesion and proliferation. Overall, the membrane with excellent mechanical properties and bio-functions is the paradigm of the combinatorial design of component and structure. It achieves the contradictory yet prerequisite features in response to the current challenge and offers new hope to advance biomedical applications. Equally important, the fabrication of our multifunctional bioinspired membrane is mild, efficient, scalable, and thus is poised to inspire the design of a broader range of functional material systems.

Fast‐Charging MXene/TiN‐Confined In2Se3 Anode with Dual Hydrogen‐Bonding Synergy for High‐Capacity Ammonium‐Ion Storage

Fri, 27/06/2025 - 15:00

MXene/TiN-Stabilized In2Se3 Heterostructure Anode enables ultrafast NH4 + storage via dual hydrogen-bonding networks (Se···H–N/Ti–N···H) and charge-redistributed interfaces. The anode delivers unprecedented performance in practical pouch-cells, establishing new benchmarks for stable aqueous ammonium-ion pseudocapacitors.


Abstract

Aqueous ammonium-ion (NH4 +) based hybrid pseudocapacitors (NH-HPCs) integrate sustainability and cost-effectiveness, yet their cycling stability is critically challenged by sluggish NH4 + transport, particularly in MXene-based anodes. Herein, NH3-induced N-functionalization fabricates a MXene/TiN conductive substrate, enabling confined rotary hydrothermal growth of indium selenide (In2Se3) nanoparticles into an In2Se3@MXene/TiN heterostructure. Directional Ti─N bonds suppress MXene stacking and In2Se3 agglomeration while synergizing charge-redistribution-induced lattice strain with hierarchical 2–5 nm pore channels, enabling ultrafast NH4 + migration. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations confirm electron-deficient Ti sites and dual Se···H─N/Ti─N···H hydrogen bonds enhance NH4 + adsorption, where intensified charge polarization and optimized orbital hybridization boost ion storage kinetics and structural stability. The heterostructure anode delivers 1776.1 F g−1 at 1 A g−1 with 98.84% capacitance retention over 6000 cycles. In full-cell configuration (In2Se3@MXene/TiN//AC), the NH-HPC achieves 85.45 Wh kg−1 at 800 W kg−1—powering a commercial mini-fan for >4 min after 30 s charging. A modular pouch-cell version reaches 98.2 Wh kg−1 (800 W kg−1), demonstrating exceptional stability during bending/flame tests while operating light emitting diodes array (LEDs). This work highlights interfacial charge synergy in confined heterostructures for unprecedented NH4 + storage capacity and stability, advancing high-performance ammonium-ion energy storage.

Advancing from MOFs and COFs to Functional Macroscopic Porous Constructs

Fri, 27/06/2025 - 15:00

This review study investigates the recent progress and methodologies for manufacturing metal–organic framework (MOF) or covalent–organic framework (COF)-based 3D structured macroscopic porous constructs with high structural integrity, providing the possibility to control their porosity across dimensions. This improves the capability of MOFs/COFs far beyond their powdery form, enabling a wealth of opportunities in various disciplines toward crucial societal demands.


Abstract

Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) and covalent-organic frameworks (COFs) are the highly porous rising stars of reticular chemistry. However, most face challenges such as poor macroscopic structuring capability, inadequate mechanical robustness, and inaccessible porosities for target reactants, which hinder their practical applications. This review explores various strategies to assemble MOFs and COFs into macroscopic 3D-structured multi-scale porous structures, such as aerogels, foams, and sponges. The methods discussed include direct mixing, self-shaping, in situ growth, template-assisted approaches, and 3D printing. These strategies enable macroscopic MOF or COF porous structures to achieve excellent mechanical strength and tunable porosity from the molecular level and micro-scale up to the macroscopic level. This structural tunability allows the MOF or COF porous structures to outperform their neat powders by making their micro- and meso-porosities more accessible to target reactants. Such improvements pave the way for the functionality of MOF or COF species at larger scales, addressing urgent societal needs, including environmental remediation, CO2 capturing, value-added catalytic reactions, water harvesting, electromagnetic (EM) shielding, and beyond.

Detachable and Reusable: Reinforced π‐Ion Film for Modular Synaptic Reservoir Computing

Fri, 27/06/2025 - 14:56

This study presents a reinforced π-ion film for organic electrochemical transistors (OECTs), addressing the rapid degradation of organic semiconductor layers. By introducing a mesh support and utilizing a scalable solvent exchange method, the π-ion film enhances detachability and stability. The resulting OECTs demonstrate superior performance and synaptic properties, paving the way for sustainable, modular electronic systems.


Abstract

Organic electrochemical transistors (OECTs) show significant promise for bioelectronics and neuromorphic computing applications due to their low operating voltage, biocompatibility, and ion-mediated charge transport. However, conventional OECTs with permanently fixed organic semiconductor (OSC) layers lack modularity and reusability for sustainable electronics with e-waste reduction. Here, a novel reinforced π-ion film OECT featuring a detachable and reusable OSC layer that creates a unified composite with dielectric and gate components, establishing a new paradigm for modular device architectures is proposed. Through solvent exchange and mesh-supported gelation, π-ion film exhibits enhanced mechanical stability, detachability, and superior electrical performance. The OECTs demonstrate remarkable 35-day air stability, 50-day storage lifetime, and over 80% performance retention after 600 electrical cycles. Furthermore, the π-ion film OECTs exhibit synaptic behavior with paired-pulse facilitation of 167% and long-term memory retention of 34% maintained synaptic current after 250 s. These characteristics enable reservoir computing applications with a 4-bit encoding scheme for image recognition, processing 16 × 16 pixelated input patterns, demonstrating reliable state differentiation and stable signal retention. Even at lab-scale development, reinforced π-ion film OECTs represent a promising eco-friendly platform for modular, reusable components in next-generation neuromorphic computing systems, aligning with electronic waste reduction policies by enabling component reuse.

Bioinspired Turing‐Nanoarchitected Needle for Solid Matrices Analysis: A Universal Platform Enabling Dual‐Scale SERS Enhancement

Fri, 27/06/2025 - 14:56

Integrates electrochemically Turing-nanoarchitected Ag needle frameworks with conformal ZIF-8 coating, the hierarchical structure enables dual-scale enhancement that mesoscopic light manipulation and microscopic molecular enrichment. The injector-integrated design seamlessly interfaces with portable Raman systems, achieving rapid in situ detection of contaminants in untreated solid matrices with sub-millimeter spatial resolution—a transformative leap toward field-deployable chemical diagnostics.


Abstract

The spontaneous emergence of Turing patterns in biological systems has inspired advanced materials with superior performance, yet their untapped potential in surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) technology offers a transformative frontier. Mirroring the anti-reflective coating of insect eyes, where Turing-patterned corneal protrusions form graded refractive index interfaces with the lens, a bioinspired integration of Turing-nanoarchitected Ag (TN-Ag) with in situ zeolitic imidazolate framework-8 (ZIF-8) growth is engineered. The electrochemically sculpted fractal framework on silver needles serves dual roles as plasmonic amplifiers and curvature-guided templates for ZIF-8 growth, spatially aligning electromagnetic hotspots with selective-enrichment porous channels. The TN-Ag/ZIF-8 hierarchical architecture enables dual-scale SERS enhancement through mesoscopic light modulation via refractive index gradients and microscopic molecular enrichment through size-selective pores. Leveraging 4-mercaptophenylboronic acid as a dual-recognition probe, this platform achieves ultrasensitive discrimination and detection of Hg2+ (10−10 m) and methylmercury (10−8 m) with exceptional interference resistance and practical reliability. Further, its injector-integrated design permits direct sampling in untreated solid matrices while seamlessly interfacing with portable Raman systems, demonstrating readiness for real-world environmental monitoring and food safety diagnostics. By transmuting biomimetic principles into functional nanofabrication, this work establishes a universal paradigm for next-generation on-site chemical analysis, uniting biological design logic with engineered sensing demands.

Tin‐Lead‐Selenide Nanocrystals for Sensitive Uncooled Mid‐Infrared Focal Plane Array Imager with Monolithic Readout Integration

Fri, 27/06/2025 - 14:55

Tin-doped lead selenide nanocrystals are synthesized to reduce thermal noise by adjusting Sn doping content. The uncooled mid-infrared focal plane array imager (64 × 64 pixels) fabricated by monolithic integration above nanocrystals exhibits an excellent detectivity (7.46 × 109 Jones) and a thermal sensitivity (133 mK) at room temperature. It successfully realizes the uncooled mid-infrared thermal imaging with a lens.


Abstract

The mid-infrared focal plane array (FPA) imager has developed over recent decades to become multifunctional, powerful, reliable, miniaturized, and cost-effective. However, the complexity of the refrigerated packaging process (such as dewar flask) and traditional fabrication technology (such as flip-chip) continues to contribute significantly to the high cost of industrial production. Here, a simple, low-cost, and effective type of uncooled mid-infrared FPA imager is reported through the monolithic integration of mid-infrared Pb1-xSnxSe nanocrystals (NCs) PIN heterojunction (PbS/Pb1-xSnxSe/ZnO) photodetectors and glass-based readout integrated circuits (ROICs). Sn-doping in PbSe NCs not only weakens the internal photocarrier-phonon coupling to reduce thermal noise but also optimizes the energy band structure of the heterojunction to enhance mid-infrared performance. Finally, the PbS/Pb0.86Sn0.14Se/ZnO heterojunction photodetector demonstrates a dark current (2.7 x 10−7 A mm−2 at −0.5 V), a detectivity of 7.46 × 109 Jones at a peak wavelength of 4.25 µm, air stability (retaining 96.7% performance at 300 K for 360 days) and the corresponding uncooled mid-infrared FPA (64 × 64 pixels) achieves excellent thermal sensitivity of 133 mK. These results underscore the substantial potential applications of mid-infrared FPA based on the heterojunction, including spectral imaging, gas leak detection, and chemical reagent identification.

Clinically Accurate Diagnosis of Alzheimer's Disease via Single‐Molecule Bioelectronic Label‐Free Profiling of Multiple Blood Extracellular Vesicle Biomarkers

Fri, 27/06/2025 - 14:54

A bioelectronic platform is developed to detect Alzheimer's disease biomarkers in blood extracellular vesicles with unprecedented sensitivity. By integrating transistor technology with microelectrodes, the platform identifies multiple indicators simultaneously in just 20 min, achieving perfect accuracy in clinical tests. This rapid, label-free approach can transform early diagnosis and monitoring of neurodegenerative diseases.


Abstract

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder with no cure, making early diagnosis critical for mitigating its impact. Blood extracellular vesicles (EVs) hold promises as biomarkers for AD diagnosis, but current detection technologies lack the sensitivity and multiplexing capabilities needed for efficient diagnosis. Here, a novel label-free bioelectronic platform is presented based on an organic electrochemical transistor (OECT) integrated with a microelectrode array (MEA) for ultrasensitive detection of AD biomarkers in blood EVs, including amyloid-β (Aβ1-40 and Aβ1-42), total tau (t-tau), and phosphorylated tau (p-tau181). This platform achieves a detection limit as low as the zeptomolar (zM) level, enabling the detection of single-molecule targets. It provides a comprehensive multiplexed diagnostic model capable of delivering results within 20 min. Notably, the systematic integration of multiple AD biomarkers in blood EVs is demonstrated to significantly enhance diagnostic accuracy. This study presents a novel EVs-based multiplexed diagnostic model for AD, correctly classifying all clinical samples (n = 40), far exceeding the accuracy of a single biomarker. With its high sensitivity and rapid turnaround, this platform enables reliable AD diagnosis and holds the potential for tracking disease progression, offering a transformative tool to combat the societal burden of AD.

Metal Single‐Atom Materials: Unlocking the Future of Sustainable Energy and Environment in Automobiles

Fri, 27/06/2025 - 14:53

The future of the automotive energy field is inseparable from the research and application of novel nanomaterials. This review provides a detailed overview of the potential applications of metal single-atom materials in dominating automotive fields, including fuel production, power supply equipment, and exhaust treatment.


Abstract

Automobiles are constantly evolving with advancements in green energy and environmental technologies, e.g., sustainable energy devices, green synthesis, carbon utilization, catalytic exhaust conversion, etc. Therefore, the automotive field has become a complex system engineering, which requires the coordination of these sub-fields for the future vehicle industry. Developing these sub-fields is inseparable from the research and application of novel nanomaterials. Among the nanomaterials that have emerged in recent years, metal single-atom materials (MSAMs) have received particular attention due to their ultrahigh host atom utilization rate and abundant adjustability. MSAMs will likely accelerate vehicle development, which is mainly reflected in transforming energy structures and innovating specific green technologies. Herein, we first concluded the relationship between nanomaterials and sub-applications of automobiles. Then, the progress of large-scale preparation of MSAMs and their potential applications in dominating automotive fields, including fuel production, power supply equipment, and exhaust treatment are systematically summarized. Finally, the possible contributions and impacts of MSAMs on the automotive field are presented. This review aims to provide a systematic summary of MSAMs applied in specific sustainable energy and environmental applications for vehicles, thus achieving the rational design and utilization of atomic-scale modification on nanomaterials for developing a revolutionary automobile transportation system.

The Rise of Mechanobiology for Advanced Cell Engineering and Manufacturing

Fri, 27/06/2025 - 08:00

With the growing demand for cell-based therapies, efficient cellular engineering is crucial. This review calls for greater recognition of mechanobiology principles applied through advanced biomaterial designs, mechanical confinement, and highlights recent advances using micro/nanotechnologies to enhance cell manufacturing. Challenges and opportunities are also discussed to encourage further innovation in advanced cell engineering.


Abstract

The rise of cell-based therapies, regenerative medicine, and synthetic biology, has created an urgent need for efficient cell engineering, which involves the manipulation of cells for specific purposes. This demand is driven by breakthroughs in cell manufacturing, from fundamental research to clinical therapies. These innovations have come with a deeper understanding of developmental biology, continued optimization of mechanobiological processes and platforms, and the deployment of advanced biotechnological approaches. Induced pluripotent stem cells and immunotherapies like chimeric antigen receptor T cells enable personalized, scalable treatments for regenerative medicine and diseases beyond oncology. But continued development of cell manufacturing and its concomitant clinical advances is hindered by limitations in the production, efficiency, safety, regulation, cost-effectiveness, and scalability of current manufacturing routes. Here, recent developments are examined in cell engineering, with particular emphasis on mechanical aspects, including biomaterial design, the use of mechanical confinement, and the application of micro- and nanotechnologies in the efficient production of enhanced cells. Emerging approaches are described along each of these avenues based on state-of-the-art fundamental mechanobiology. It is called on the field to consider mechanical cues, often overlooked in cell manufacturing, as key tools to augment or, at times, even to replace the use of traditional soluble factors.

Ultrathin Polymer Electrolyte With Fast Ion Transport and Stable Interface for Practical Solid‐state Lithium Metal Batteries

Fri, 27/06/2025 - 08:00

High-performance ultrathin (≈7.8 µm) polycarbonate-based electrolyte (UPCE) is fabricated, without the use of additional liquid additives. The designed UPCE delivers a high ionic conductivity (4.8 × 10−4 S cm−1) and an ultrahigh critical current density (11.5 mA cm−2) at 25 °C. The 4.5 V solid-state Li|LiCoO2 cell demonstrates an ultralong lifespan cycling stability over 1500 cycles at 1 C.


Abstract

Ultrathin solid-polymer-electrolytes (SPEs) are the most promising alternative substituting for the conventional liquid electrolyte to enable high-energy-density, safe lithium-metal-batteries (LMBs). Nevertheless, developing ultrathin SPEs with both high ionic conductivity, and strong Li dendrite retardant is still a significant challenge. Here a scalable fabrication of high-performance ultrathin (≈7.8 µm) polycarbonate-based electrolyte (UPCE) is proposed via electrolyte structural engineering, phase separation-derived poly(vinylidene fluoride-co-hexafluoropropylene) (PVH) porous scaffold, without use of additional liquid additives. The rational electrolyte structural modulation with 1-fluoro-4-(1-methylethenyl)benzene (FMB) enables a weakened Li+-polymer interaction due to weak Li+ solvation with fluorine, benzene ring, facilitates the formation of LiF-rich solid-electrolyte-interphase on Li metal surface. As a result, the designed UPCE delivers a high ionic conductivity of 4.8 × 10−4 S cm−1, an ultrahigh critical current density of 11.5 mA cm−2 at 25 °C. The solid-state Li symmetric cell attains unprecedented ultralong cycling over 6000 h at 0.5 mA cm−2. Furthermore, the Li|LiCoO2 cell cycles stably over 1500 cycles at a high operating voltage of 4.5 V, and the pouch cell can achieve a high energy density of 495 Wh kg−1 excluding the packaging. This work offers a new pathway inspiring efforts to commercialize ultrathin SPEs for high-energy solid-state LMBs.

Unveiling Energy Loss Mechanisms to Empower Ternary Organic Solar Cells with over 20% Efficiency: A Systematic Oligomeric Approach

Fri, 27/06/2025 - 07:19

This study designs modular oligomeric donors (5BDD, 5BDD-F, 5BDT-F, 5BDT-Cl) for ternary OSCs, achieving PCEs >20%. By systematically tuning energy levels, we reveal material compatibility, not HOMO alignment, drive V OC enhancement, suppress ACQ and reduce energy loss, offering new design principles for high-efficiency OSCs.


Abstract

In organic solar cells (OSCs), the ternary strategy is a mainstream approach to obtaining highly efficient OSCs. A deeper understanding of working mechanisms and the material selection criteria for boosting open-circuit voltage (V OC) is essential for further OSC breakthrough. Through a modular design principle, a series of oligomeric donors – 5BDD, 5BDD-F, 5BDT-F, and 5BDT-Cl – with similar molecular configurations but varying HOMO levels is systematically designed. These findings reveal that the HOMO levels of these oligomers have a negligible impact on the V OC of the ternary OSCs. Instead, their excellent compatibility with acceptors played a pivotal role in enhancing V OC. The oligomers effectively suppressed excessive acceptor aggregation and achieved Aggregation-Caused Quenching Suppression (ACQS), strengthening the external electroluminescence quantum efficiency (EQEEL) and reducing non-radiative recombination energy losses. Simultaneously, oligomers fine-tuned and optimized the morphology of the blend films, leading to a higher fill factor (FF) and improved performance. Notably, the 5BDT-F- and 5BDT-Cl-based ternary OSCs achieved impressive power conversion efficiencies (PCEs) of 19.8% and 20.1% (certified 19.76%), with FFs of 80.9% and 80.7%, respectively. This work elucidates the unusual role of the third component energy levels on the V OC in ternary OSCs and offers valuable guidance for future OSC design.

Photo‐Induced Dynamic Catalytic Domains for High‐Performance Lithium‐Sulfur Batteries

Fri, 27/06/2025 - 07:09

A photo-activated Co/Cu dual-atom catalyst on C₃N₄ is developed to construct dynamic catalytic domains, enabling accelerated sulfur redox kinetics and uniform Li₂S deposition. This strategy delivers outstanding rate capability and long-term stability in lithium-sulfur batteries under high-loading and lean-electrolyte conditions, offering new insights into light-driven electrocatalyst engineering.


Abstract

Lithium-sulfur batteries (LSBs) face significant challenges due to sluggish reaction kinetics and the polysulfide shuttle effect. Here, a light-induced anchoring strategy is employed to construct Co/Cu diatomic catalysts (DACs) on C3N4, introducing dual active sites with strong polysulfide adsorption and bifunctional catalytic activity. Upon light excitation, the synergistic Co–Cu interaction induces local electronic redistribution, which triggers broader electronic rearrangement and directional charge carrier migration. This process generates dynamic catalytic domains with enhanced polysulfide adsorption and catalytic conversion capability. These domains not only promote effective photogenerated carrier separation but also play a pivotal role in accelerating sulfur redox kinetics and regulating Li₂S deposition behavior. As a result, the Co/Cu-C₃N₄ cathode exhibits exceptional electrochemical performance, achieving 1200 stable cycles at 8 C with a capacity decay of 0.025% per cycle. Remarkably, under lean electrolyte conditions (E/S = 4 µL mg⁻¹) and ultra-high sulfur loading (14.73 mg cm⁻2), the battery maintains excellent cycling stability. This work offers a conceptual framework for photo-induced catalytic microenvironment design and highlights the potential of spatiotemporal electronic modulation for next-generation photo-assisted energy storage systems.

Active Diffusion Controlled Dual Stability in Thermoelectrics for Sustainable Heat Harvesting

Fri, 27/06/2025 - 07:09

Introducing a Mg interlayer at the junction simultaneously stabilizes Mg3(Bi,Sb)2 materials and contacts for over 100 days. This dual stabilization derives from suppressing detrimental Mg diffusion and compensating for Mg loss, thereby maintaining an outstanding power density of 0.45 W cm−2 and remarkable conversion efficiency of 8.6% in aged modules, offering new insights for durable thermoelectric energy harvesting.


Abstract

Thermoelectric technology offers a promising pathway toward global sustainability by harvesting waste heat. However, long-term stability is hindered by inevitable elemental diffusion, degrading both the thermoelectric junction and material properties, which prevents the realization of power generation applications. Here, dual and superior stability is achieved in high-performance Mg3(Bi,Sb)2, surpassing prior studies that focus on either junction or material stability. By introducing an Mg layer at the junction, detrimental Mg diffusion is suppressed and compensate for Mg loss in the material, effectively stabilizing both junctions and materials for over 100 days. As a result, a thermoelectric module with 30-day-aged Mg3(Bi,Sb)2 is able to maintain an outstanding power density of 0.45 W cm−2 and remarkable conversion efficiency of 8.6%, demonstrating unprecedented stability. These findings provide new insights into thermoelectric junction engineering, shifting from interface optimization to comprehensive stabilization, advancing the practical viability of thermoelectric energy harvesting for renewable and waste heat applications.

Dual‐Site Activation for Efficient Acidic CO2 Electroreduction at Industrial‐Level Current Densities

Fri, 27/06/2025 - 07:05

This work proposes a dual sites activation strategy to enhance the nucleophilic of Sn sites and modulate the Cu sites as harder Lewis acid sites by constructing CuS/SnS2 Mott–Schottky catalysts. The optimized charge distribution facilitates the adsorption of CO2 and *OCHO intermediates simultaneously, thus improving formic acid selectivity in acid electrolytes under industrial current densities.


Abstract

Electroreduction of CO2 to formic acid in acidic media offers a promising approach for value-added CO2 utilization. However, achieving high selectivity for formic acid in acidic electrolytes remains challenging due to the competitive hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), particularly at industrially relevant current densities. Herein, a charge redistribution modulation strategy is demonstrated by constructing the CuS /SnS2 Mott–Schottky catalyst to enhance formic acid selectivity. Experiments and calculation results reveal the broadening of Sn orbitals and reduced orbital symmetry of Sn orbitals contribute to enhanced CO2 adsorption, while the modulated Cu sites with a stronger Lewis acid character stabilize *OCHO intermediates more effectively. This enables dual-site activation for efficient CO2 electroreduction into formic acid synthesis. Consequently, the optimized CuS/SnS2 catalysts achieve a maximum formic acid Faradaic efficiency (FE) of 99% in acidic electrolytes and maintain selectivity above 80% at a current density of 1 A cm−2, significantly surpassing the performance of CuS and SnS2 alone. Moreover, the excellent selectivity across pH-universal electrolytes demonstrates that dual-site activation is a promising strategy for designing highly efficient CO2 reduction reaction catalysts.

Amorphization‐Induced d‐Orbital Rearrangement in Ultrathin CoO Nanosheets with Strong d‐p Interactions for Efficient CO2 Photoreduction

Fri, 27/06/2025 - 07:05

Ultrathin amorphous CoO nanosheets are synthesized via a low-temperature annealing strategy. Amorphization induces modulated energy levels and an increased population of unpaired electrons in the frontier d-orbitals of Co atoms. These features enhance the 3d yz –2px interactions between the Co center and the C atom in the CO2 molecule, thereby facilitating its adsorption and activation compared to crystalline CoO.


Abstract

Photocatalytic CO2 conversion into syngas presents a sustainable avenue for mitigating carbon emissions while generating value-added fuels. However, sluggish charge carrier dynamics and weak, non-specific interactions between catalytic sites and CO2 molecules limit efficiency. Herein, ultrathin amorphous CoO nanosheets (a-CoO) are reported that integrate structural and electronic advantages for enhanced CO₂ photoreduction. X-ray absorption spectroscopy and density functional theory analyses reveal that amorphization partially transforms the local crystal field of Co from quasi-octahedral to quasi-tetrahedral coordination, resulting in a greater population of unpaired electrons in the frontier d-orbitals. This reconfiguration promotes electron injection from Co 3dyz into the 2π* antibonding orbitals component of C 2px in CO2, which strengthens 3d-2p orbital hybridization and lowers the activation energy barrier. In situ spectroscopic further confirms that this orbital restructuring accelerates charge transfer from the Co center to CO2 and facilitates its activation. Meanwhile, the ultrathin 2D architecture improves the separation and transport of photoexcited carriers. Consequently, vigorous bubbles are observed under visible light irradiation, with a total syngas evolution rate of 23.7 mmol g−1 h−1 (12.6 and 11.1 mmol g−1 h−1 for CO and H2, respectively) and an apparent quantum efficiency of 1.28% at 450 nm—≈8.7-fold improvement over its crystalline counterpart.

Inflammation‐Activatable Nanoscavengers for Sustainable Cell‐Free DNA Capture and Cleavage

Thu, 26/06/2025 - 09:13

An inflammation-activatable nanoscavenger is constructed from dendrimer-templated, charge/conformation-transformable polypeptides to mediate cell-free DNA (cfDNA) scavenging and inflammatory bowel disease treatment. Inside the inflamed intestine, the polypeptides transform from negatively charged random coils into positively charged α-helices, which enables sustained cfDNA scavenging via cfDNA capture   followed by Cyclen-Zn-mediated cfDNA cleavage. Thus, the nanoscavenger effectively attenuates inflammation and restores immune homeostasis.


Abstract

Cell-free DNA (cfDNA) scavenging using cationic materials represents a promising therapeutic modality for autoimmune diseases (AIDs) such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). This approach, however, suffers from critical issues of binding saturation for cfDNA and risk of re-exposure of the captured cfDNA. Herein, an inflammation-activatable nanoscavenger integrating both cfDNA capture and cleavage functions is constructed from dendrimer-templated, charge- and conformation-transformable polypeptides with Cyclen-Zn complexes conjugated on the backbone termini. At neutral pH, the polypeptides containing both cis-aconitic acid and guanidine side chains adopt negative charges and random-coiled conformation, thus featuring long blood circulation and high accumulation to the inflamed intestinal tissue. Inside the mildly acidic inflammatory microenvironment, the polypeptides transform to the positively charged α-helices due to removal of the cis-aconitic acid groups, thus enabling robust cfDNA capture through electrostatic attraction, salt bridging, and spatial confinement within the cavity between adjacent rod-like helices. Subsequently, the exposed Cyclen-Zn endows the nanoscavenger with DNase-like activity to cleave the captured cfDNA, allowing sustainable cfDNA capture and scavenging. In consequence, the nanoscavenger efficiently inhibits TLR9 activation and restores immune homeostasis in IBD mice. This study proposes an enlightened strategy for sustainable cfDNA scavenging, and it renders a promising modality for AIDs treatment.

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4 January 2021

We are seeking to hire a research assistant to work on carbon nanotube based microdevices. More information is available here: www.jobs.cam.ac.uk/job/28202/

We are Hiring!

4 January 2021

We are seeking to hire a postdoc researcher to work on the structuring of Li-ion battery electrodes. More information is available here: www.jobs.cam.ac.uk/job/28197/